Pope Leo XIV assures that “there can be no tolerance for any form of abuse,” in a message sent to the National Conference on the Protection of Minors that is being held until tomorrow in Clark-Angeles (Philippines).
Every parish and pastoral activity must be a space to “glorify God and care for others, especially children and the most vulnerable,” says the Pontiff in a message addressed to the archbishop of San Fernando and president of the Office for the Protection of Minors of the Philippine Episcopal Conference, Mons. Florentino G. Lavarias.
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The Pontiff stresses the importance of promoting policies and practices that guarantee “transparency in the management of cases of abuse,” as well as fostering a “culture of prevention,” especially in the protection of children.
The Pope emphasizes that the Church is “our spiritual home” and that every parish and pastoral activity must be a space to “glorify God and care for others, especially children and the most vulnerable.”
Pope Leo XIV emphasizes, in this way, that “There can be no tolerance for any form of abuse in the ChurchFurthermore, he is hopeful that the deliberations of the conference held in the Philippines will lead to the implementation of essential policies and practices that ensure transparency, protect “these little ones of the Lord” and foster a culture of prevention in the Church.
The Pontiff also emphasizes that the protection of minors is not only an administrative obligation, but a “spiritual and pastoral mandate” that allows the Philippine Church and the universal Church to be an “authentic testimony of Christ, the Good Shepherd, who loves and cares for his flock.”
The message concludes by entrusting itself to the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, and the impartation of her Apostolic Blessing to all participants.
The National Conference on the Protection of Minors brings together until tomorrow bishops, priests, religious, professionals and lay people committed to the protection of minors in all areas of ecclesial life, and is part of the continued effort of the Church in the Philippines to guarantee safe and transparent spaces for all.
Victoria Cardiel
Victoria Cardiel is a journalist specialized in social and religious information issues. Since 2013, he has covered all Vatican news for various media, such as the Spanish news agency Europa Press, or the weekly newspaper of the Archdiocese of Madrid, Alfa y Omega.